Jun 8, 2007

When in Rome do as the Romans and when in Germany...you get the point. Here are some ways to avoid committing a faux pas while in Germany.

Shaking hands

Shaking hands is an important part of German culture. It is customary to shake someone's hand when you meet them for the first time, and at every subsequent meeting as well.

At business meetings and some social meetings, it's expected that each participant shake everyone else's hand upon arriving and again when leaving.

Kissing

In more casual relationships, a friend may offer their cheek instead of their hand. It's common for friends in Germany to lightly kiss each other on both cheeks when they see each other. At least they kiss the air next to the other person's cheek. Though German cheek-kissing isn't quite as ingrained as in other European countries, it can still be intimidating for visitors who may be accustomed to cultures where personal space is more sacred.

Titles

In addition to "Herr" (Mr.) and "Frau" (Ms.), academic and noble titles are quite important in Germany. Even if it may sound cumbersome, don't forget to include them when speaking with someone. They come after "Herr" or "Frau," for example "Herr Dr. Keller" or "Frau Prof. von Henkel." Even double titles, such as "Frau Prof. Dr. Schumann," aren't shortened or omitted.

The word "Fräulein," is an old-fashioned word for "Miss" and is no longer in use. Instead, it has been replaced with the more neutral word "Frau," which is equivalent to "Ms" and gives no indication of a woman's marital status. Do not use "Fräulein," as you are likely to offend someone.

Punctuality

German punctuality is more than just a stereotype -- it's also common practice. Being on time is an important part of social etiquette.

For business meetings and other important appointments, it is a good idea to arrive a few minutes early. Being late or rushing makes a bad impression -- especially when everyone else is punctual.

As for private appointments with friends and acquaintances, being "fashionably late" is impolite in Germany. Arrive at the time you have arranged, as being tardy may put a damper on the evening. The more guests there are, however, the wider the window of time is within which it is still appropriate to show up.

Being invited

When you are invited to a private home in Germany for dinner or for afternoon coffee and cake, it's a good idea to bring a small gift for the host or hostess. Flowers are always welcome. Just be sure to bring an odd number of buds, as an even number is said to bring bad luck. Wine or candies are also appropriate to bring.

And these are some feedbacks about visiting Germany......

Once you visit Germany, you want to return again and again. I could go on and on about what I enjoy about Germany. Beginning with the delicious food, especially the breakfast, Spätzle, Nürnberger sausage, the high quality of draught beer, the Autobahn and excellent driving etiquette, polite and courteous people, beer gardens, the Black Forest, Bavaria, the history in Berlin, and lots more. I can't wait to return to Germany! - Scott M.

I visited Germany a few years ago for a two-month study course. Impressions of Germany from pictures and books had been rooted in my mind since my childhood. In my mind, Germany is not just a modern country, but also a country with a long history and legends, including Hansel und Gretel, Walpurgistnacht, etc. I've been in Canada and the US. They're just modern countries. I barely found the aroma of their roots. But in Germany, despite its modernity, you still can sense her past history marked with castles here and there. When arriving at the St. Thomas Church in Leipzig I sighed with joy. I touched the tomb of my favorite composer Johann Sebastian Bach. Traveling in Germany fulfills my idea of a great country. - Johannes Sebastian

Thanks for the tip ate! But I do learned alot of German culture since I do have a share of German friends here who are exchanged students. As far as I noticed most people from southern Europe are more into the beso thing